Time to recharge
Looks like it's two seasons in a row of being knocked out of the first round of the NHL playoffs for my beloved Tampa Bay Lightning.
At lest I got to see the finale first-hand, thanks to NBC's national broadcast that was watched by me and perhaps a dozen other people.
Sure wish the 'Ning had been able to force a Game 7 in New Jersey against the Devils, but it didn't happen. While I'm happy with most of Sunday's offensive intensity, no one is going to beat a team with Martin Brodeur in net when you donate a goal where you give away the puck in your end, your defender bumps into your goalie and knocks him on his back like a turtle, and the opponent can essentially bag an empty-netter (as can be seen at about the 1:40 mark of this YouTube clip.)
I understand that the Boltz's core weapons are locked up financially for at least one more season. Good news, good news. I just hope we can gain some goaltending that's up to par with the skills of Vinny , Marty, Brad, Danny, etc.
Other than that, what else can I say but "Wait 'til next year!"
And here's an image where Martin St. Louis looks like a levitating Mini-Me .
Go Lightning!